(RNS) Fifty years ago on Thursday (Oct. 11), hundreds of elaborately robed leaders strode into St. Peter's Basilica in a massive display of solemn ecclesiastical pomp. It signaled the start of a historic three-year assembly that would change the way members of the world's largest Christian denomination viewed themselves, their church and the rest of the world.

Teo Bishop: Trans Is A Teacher for All Of UsI like to think of trans people as agents of transition and transformation. They call on all of us to acknowledge that what we assume about the world is not always the case, and what we believe is fixed about humanity is often quite fluid. That's how special my kid is.

Michael G. Long: An Open Letter to Rev. Bernice KIngPlease be assured that the LGBT community and its allies stand ready to work with you in advancing your mother's inclusive legacy. Would you be kind enough to include us at every step along the way as you lay plans to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington?